Compensable Damages in a Car Accident Case

 Posted on September 29, 2022 in Car Accidents

The financial costs and losses associated with a motor vehicle accident can be burdensome. In addition to the initial medical costs, there may be future costs associated with ongoing care. Many car accident victims are not yet healed - to the extent that they will heal - at the time their claim is settled, and yet, future expenses must be accounted for. For those whose income is needed to support themselves and their families, lost wages may be a major source of concern. Both future healthcare costs and lost wages may be compensable damages after a car accident claim. After a car accident, the not-at-fault party or parties may be able to recover a variety of types of compensation. The goal of pursuing compensation after a car accident is to place you roughly in the position you would have been in had the accident not occurred. It is critical to have the guidance of an attorney throughout the claims process. 

Damages Potentially Available After a Motor Vehicle Accident

Calculating the amount of damages to include in a demand can be a complex endeavour. Certain types of damages are not readily quantifiable, but plainly exist. Potentially compensable damages may include: 

• Future healthcare costs - If your injuries have created a need for ongoing healthcare, such as further physical therapy sessions, home health aids, or planned surgeries, these costs can be accounted for in a demand for compensation. 

• Lost earnings - If, as a result of your injuries sustained in the accident, you have lost wages or will lose income in the future, you may be able to recover compensation to make up for the loss. This may be of extreme importance if you will never be able to return to your pre-accident career. 

• Pain and suffering - The injuries sustained in car accidents can be immensely painful, and the healing time may be prolonged. 

• Emotional distress - Car accidents can be terrifying for those involved in them. It is not uncommon for car accident victims to experience unwanted intrusive thoughts about the car accident, or to feel fear or panic when riding in a car. 

• Property damage - Although often an afterthought when dealing with more pressing concerns, such as bodily injuries, you can recover compensation for your vehicle and any other property that was damaged in the accident. 

It is best to be represented by an attorney who can help you perform this complex calculation. 

Contact a Lake County Car Accident Lawyer

Salvi & Maher, LLP is skilled in identifying compensable damages after a car accident. Our knowledgeable Waukegan car accident attorneys will strive to recover the highest possible amount of financial compensation on your behalf. Call 847-662-3303 for a free consultation. 

Source: 

https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812013